Saint James has been very blessed to have an outstanding vestry this year, led by the sure and experienced hand of Senior Warden Nancy Herrera and energized by the non-stop efforts of Junior Warden Carol Johnson. But with the approach of our Annual Meeting and vestry elections at the end of this month, it’s time for us to be looking to the future and considering who can provide the leadership we need going forward.

We know there will be some changes. Nancy has indicated she is ready to step down as Senior Warden, and Phyllis Sharla will be rotating off the vestry this year. In addition, Martin Mooney, who has served us so ably as treasurer for these past few years, is ready to hand the church books over to someone else. These are all big shoes to fill. But I’m excited about the folks who have agreed to step up and take on new responsibilities.

First, let me tell you about our new treasurer. Karen McCall has been training with Martin for the past three months, and has actually already taken over the office as of Jan. 1. Following Martin is no easy task, but I have complete confidence in Karen, and have no doubts that she will do a fine job.

Beyond that, here is the slate of warden and vestry candidates, pending a vote of approval by the congregation on Jan. 28.

· Carol Johnson has agreed to step into the Senior Warden position.

· John McCormac has agreed to take on the responsibilities of Junior Warden, and become a part of the Vestry Class of 2020.

· Rose Applegate, who came on the vestry last year to fill a one-year unexpired term, now seeks a full three-year term as part of the Vestry Class of 2020.

· Ginny McColm, who recently transferred to St. James, is also up for a three-year term as part of the Vestry Class of 2020.

· Carol Cozart, another new member at St. James, but someone with extensive vestry experience elsewhere, is up for election to fill the two-year unexpired term of Nancy Shepard, who was elected to the Class of 2019.

· Cathy Loomis seeks election to fill the one-year unexpired term of Stephen Anthony, part of the Class of 2018.

Of course, anyone who wishes to submit another name for consideration to a vestry seat is welcome to do so.

You can read the bios of our warden and vestry candidates here.

I’m excited about our incoming new leaders. They bring a range of skills and knowledge that we haven’t always had available to us, and I expect our vestry to continue to be a strong, well-functioning board. These incoming vestry members join existing members Helen Masterson, Pearl Oppliger and JoAnn Hamm.

Thanks to all the those who have so faithfully served our church in the past, and those who will continue to do so in the future.